Sarasota Watering Rules: How to Stay Compliant and Keep Your Lawn Healthy
If you live in Sarasota, you’re probably already aware that conserving water is a big deal here. Between periodic droughts, heavy usage during growing season, and a growing population, water is a limited and valued resource in our community. That’s why Sarasota County enacts specific watering restrictions to help keep water usage under control and make sure everyone has enough when it matters most.
The good news is you can stay compliant with these rules without letting your lawn suffer. The key is understanding the regulations and putting a few strategies in place to maximize the water you do use. Whether you’re a homeowner trying to keep your grass green or a landscaping professional responsible for numerous properties, this guide will help you navigate Sarasota’s water restrictions with confidence.
Why Are There Water Restrictions in Sarasota?
Sarasota County is blessed with a rich ecosystem, from the Gulf of Mexico’s shores to inland lakes and wetlands. But this ecosystem depends on careful water management. During the dry season or periods of heavy usage, water resources can become stressed, putting pressure on freshwater supplies and threatening habitats.
The main goals of the county’s water restrictions are:
To avoid overdraws from groundwater sources.
To make sure there’s enough water for essential services and future generations.
To encourage responsible irrigation practices and reduce waste.
The Current Watering Schedule
The current schedule typically divides days by address. Here’s how it works:
If your address is odd-numbered (like 123 Main St): Water on Wednesday and Saturday.
If your address is even-numbered (like 124 Main St): Water on Thursday and Sunday.
Non-residential properties: Tuesday and Friday.
Additionally, watering is only allowed during certain hours — typically before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. — when temperatures are lower and less water will be lost to evaporation.
Tip: Check the Sarasota County website or your utility department for any temporary modifications, especially during a drought or following heavy rain.
Why It’s Important to Follow the Rules
Ignoring these schedules can result in a warning or even a fine if violations continue. But this isn’t just about avoiding penalties, conserving water directly benefits you and your community.
Using water efficiently means:
Your utility bills stay lower.
Your irrigation system performs more effectively.
Your soil stays healthy and well-hydrated.
Local freshwater resources are preserved for future generations.
Tips to Stay Compliant Without Compromising Your Lawn’s Health
Here are a few strategies you can use to maximize water delivery while honoring the regulations:
Adjust Your Irrigation System:
Make sure your controller is set to match your designated days and hours. A rain sensor is a great addition; it temporarily shuts off irrigation after rain, preventing overwatering.
Consider Smart Irrigation:
Installing a smart controller lets you adjust schedules remotely and account for soil conditions and nearby rain. It’s a convenient way to stay compliant while conserving water.
Perform Maintenance:
Leaking heads, broken sprayers, or misaligned nozzles waste water and undermine your system’s ability to operate efficiently. Inspect and repair components regularly.
Pair Your Water with Best Practices:
Reduce water stress by cutting your grass at a taller height (about 3 to 4 inches), adding a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around trees and garden beds, and choosing native, drought-tolerance plant varieties.
Need Help Staying Compliant?
If you’re unsure whether your irrigation system meets local codes or if you’d like help figuring it all out, we’re here to help.
Irrigation Supply SRQ can:
Perform a complete system evaluation.
Provide smart controller and rain sensor installations.
Repair and service all components to maximize water delivery and minimize waste.
Following Sarasota’s watering rules isn’t about making your life more difficult — it’s about conserving a shared, valuable resource while keeping your lawn healthy and thriving. With a few tweaks to your irrigation system and a bit of knowledge about the local regulations, you can cut back on water waste without compromising on a green, vibrant landscape.
If you’d like more help navigating these guidelines or choosing products to maximize water efficiency, our team is here to answer questions, troubleshoot issues, and help you find the best solution for your yard.